California Can't Catch a Break: State Sets Another Heat-related Milestone

California is in one heck of a meteorological rut. New data released on Wednesday shows the state continues to have its warmest year on record so far, with statewide average temperatures coming in nearly 2 degrees Fahrenheit above the previous record set just last year. The heat is a key contributor — as well as a symptom of — the state's historic drought, which has become so severe that Governor Jerry Brown issued the first-ever mandatory statewide water restrictions last week. The ongoing drought has its roots in variations in ocean conditions and atmospheric circulation across the Pacific and North America. http://on.mash.to/1IKqGcF http://bit.ly/1fJ5yqZ